Where Can I Meet Other Shellers Locally?

Besides the beach, try:

Houston Conchology Society
http://www.houstonshellclub.com/


Check the website above for current meeting times.

Where Can I Find More Information?

Sources Used:
(search the library catalog for these titles and more @ http://library.lonestar.edu/hip/cyf.htm)

• Kingdom of the Seashell by R. Tucker Abbott (American Malacologists, 1993)
• National Audubon Society First Field Guide: Shells by Brian Cassie (Scholastic, 2000)
• The Natural History of Shells by Geerat J. Vermeij (Princeton UP, 1993)
• Shape of Life (PBS) http://www.pbs.org/kcet/shapeoflife/animals/echinoderms.html
• Shell by Alex Arthur (DK, 2000)
• Shells: Treasures of the Sea by Leonard Hill (Levin Associates, 1996)
• Top 10 Shelling Beaches by Steve Millburg (Coastal Living Magazine)http://www.coastalliving.com/coastal/travel/bestofthecoast/article/0,14587,1582251,00.html
  

How to Organize the Shells

Group by geography, type, or size
- Box with glass or plastic lid
- Foam to cushion shells

Basic information to include with shell:
•Common and scientific name
•Date
•Place

How to Identify the Shells

• Magnifying glass
• Field guides
• Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum photos @ http://www.shellmuseum.org/sanibel_shells_pictures.html
  

How to Clean the Shells

• Rinse in water and let dry away from sun
• “Soak in 50/50 bleach and water for a few hours”
  

What & How to Collect

Take only specimens without animals inside.

• Bring containers – bag, covered jar, or bucket
• Take shovel or digging tool, sieve or framed mesh sorter
• Take pencil and plastic-covered note pad
• Return rocks and other habitats to their original position if moved to find shells

What to Wear When Collecting

• Take a jacket and hat during non-summer months
• Wear waterproof, non-skid shoes (NOTE: old sneakers will do)
• Use sunscreen and hat in spring and summer